Service & Stewardship: Director of Student Services Matt Patterson Joins the Nehemiah Leaders Program
“1% better every day” is more than a motto at Visions In Education – it’s how we grow in learning, services, and success.
Director of Student Services Matt Patterson embodies this mindset, participating in the 16th class of the Nehemiah Leaders Program, a transformative experience focused on leadership, equity, and community-building.
“The Nehemiah Leaders Program is a 10-month, cohort-based leadership development program focused on building diverse, equity-centered leaders across the Greater Sacramento region,” Director Patterson explained. “The program emphasizes adaptive leadership, systems thinking, and understanding how influence, power, and relationships shape communities and organizations.”
Through monthly seminars, retreats, and applied learning, Director Patterson is learning how to lead through complexity, navigate organizational change, and build alignment across diverse perspectives.
“The learning directly supports my role at Visions by helping me lead more strategically, center equity in decision-making, and create systems that better support students and staff,” shared Director Patterson. “I plan to apply these skills by leading with greater intentionality – particularly during times of growth and change. This includes strengthening collaboration across teams, building sustainable systems, and supporting the development of leadership capacity within our organization so the impact extends beyond any one role.”
Rooted in Community
The Nehemiah Leaders Program has deep roots: beyond a strong network of alumni supporting current cohorts, Visions In Education’s Board Member Terrence Shelton is an alumnus. In addition, Board Member Shelton’s wife currently serves as CEO of NELP and sits on its Board of Directors as a graduate of the program herself.
“Knowing that Board Member Terrence Shelton is a graduate of the Nehemiah Leaders Program (along with his wife) and that his wife serves as the CEO and on the Board highlights the strong alignment between the program’s values and Visions’ mission,” said Director Patterson. “It reinforces the importance of shared leadership, community relationships, and long-term commitment to service. Board Member Shelton continues to be connected to NELP, as he is one of their lead facilitators and brings incredible passion, strengths, and experiences to support me and my cohort members in our learning and leadership journey.”
As Director Patterson shared, NELP alumni are deeply engaged, supportive, and generous with their time and expertise. Former participants serve as mentors, sounding boards, and thought partners for the cohort as they move through the rigorous program, offering perspective grounded in real leadership experience. Being part of this network provides ongoing encouragement, accountability, and connection to leaders who share a commitment to service and community impact.
“One of the most impactful aspects of the Nehemiah Leaders Program is the community it builds,” Director Patterson exclaimed. “The relationships formed through the program continue well beyond the 10 months and create a lasting network of leaders committed to equity, collaboration, and positive change.”
Recognition & Responsibility
Participation in NELP isn’t open to volunteers – candidates must be nominated. Superintendent Dr. Steve Olmos nominated Director Patterson, recognizing his leadership potential at Visions.
“Being nominated by Superintendent Olmos is a meaningful honor. It represents trust in my leadership and confidence in the work we are doing at Visions, which is absolutely humbling,” Director Matterson shared. “I view the nomination as both recognition and responsibility – to continue leading with integrity, collaboration, and a strong focus on improving outcomes for students.”
“Matt is an incredible talent. I knew he would be a great fit for NELP where both he and the organization would benefit from his skills,” Superintendent Olmos shared. “I am very proud of Matt for accepting the challenge and now others are getting to see just how gifted he is.”
Upon completing the program, Director Patterson will receive a certificate of completion and join the Nehemiah Leaders alumni network. He’s excited to bring the program’s insights into his work at Visions.
“I am grateful for the investment in me as a leader and learner by the organization and look forward to applying my learning to the work I do to ultimately support our students, staff, and families in the greatest way that I can.”